“February is Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness month. AMD is the leading cause of blindness among older Americans. Fortunately, new treatments have dramatically changed the course of the disease, making it more manageable than ever before. Although recent treatment advances can help save vision, early detection is still critical. With regards to prevention, remember what most of our moms have told us growing up… “Eat your greens!” The Macular area is made… up of pigments: Lutein, Meso-zeaxanthin, and Zeaxanthin which need to be continuously replenished. There are many plants that contain lutein, particularly the dark leafy greens. Plant carotenoids act as antioxidants which absorb wavelengths of light ranging from 400-550 nm (violet-green light). Blue light (450-495 nm) has particularly been found to be harmful to this part of the retina. So, remember to eat your kale or consider supplementation.” – Dr. Lisa Andrasz